Historic buildings often get new life as hotels, but few transformations are as intriguing as former Masonic temples and lodges becoming luxury accommodations. These unique properties preserve centuries-old architectural details, mysterious symbols, and grand meeting halls that once hosted secretive fraternal gatherings.
You can now sleep in beautifully restored Masonic buildings around the world, from London’s preserved Grecian temple to New Zealand’s Art Deco masterpiece, each offering glimpses into Freemasonry’s rich architectural heritage.
These historic hotels showcase adaptive reuse at its finest, blending original Masonic elements like checkered floors, ornate columns, and symbolic decorations with modern luxury amenities for today’s travelers.
The Andaz London – home to a preserved Grecian Masonic Temple open by reservation
You’ll discover one of London’s best-kept secrets at the Andaz London Liverpool Street. This boutique hotel houses an extraordinary preserved Grecian Masonic Temple that dates back to 1912.
The temple remains hidden behind heavy wooden doors on the third floor. You’ll access it through a winding staircase and spacious mahogany-paneled anteroom.
Architect Charles Barry Jr. designed this Grade II listed masterpiece during the building’s days as the Great Eastern Hotel. The room served exclusively for Freemasons of the City in the early 20th century.
You’ll be amazed by the £4 million worth of marble and mahogany craftsmanship throughout the space. The stunning blue dome ceiling features intricate gold zodiac details that catch your eye immediately.
Original masonic chairs and marble columns transport you back over a century. The windowless Grecian-style temple accommodates up to 60 guests for special events.
Unlike the well-known Freemasons Hall, this temple is available by reservation only. You can book it for photoshoots, presentations, or themed dinners.
Contact Information:
Andaz London Liverpool Street
40 Liverpool Street, London EC2M 7QN
Phone: +44 20 7961 1234
Website: hyatt.com/andaz
Mystery Hotel Budapest – a boutique stay in a former Freemasons’ lodge with whimsical design
You’ll discover one of Budapest’s most imaginative accommodations when you stay at the Mystery Hotel Budapest. This luxury boutique property sits in a historic building that once served as the headquarters for Hungarian Freemasons.
The eclectic palace was constructed in 1896 by the Hungarian Freemasons. It originally functioned as the Symbolic Grand Lodge of Hungary before becoming this unique hotel.
You’ll find the hotel filled with playful touches that reflect its mysterious past. Look for optical illusions above the front desk and a fire feature by the entrance. The elevator hides behind curtains, adding to the sense of wonder.
The 82 rooms, studios, and suites feature three different design styles. Each follows a Greek column theme – Corinth, Ion, or Doric. The decor draws inspiration from mystic books and movies as well as Freemason history.
Your location in Budapest’s 6th district puts you within walking distance of the city’s main attractions. You can easily reach Buda Castle with a 25-minute walk from the hotel.
The hotel offers modern amenities including a steam bath, jacuzzi, and sauna for your relaxation.
Contact Information:
Website: Mystery Hotel Budapest
The Great Eastern Hotel (Andaz) – featuring Egyptian-inspired Masonic decor and grand chandeliers
You’ll discover one of London’s most impressive Masonic temples hidden inside the Andaz London Liverpool Street hotel. This historic building was originally constructed as the Great Eastern Hotel in 1884.
The hotel underwent major changes between 1899 and 1901, then again in 2000. Hyatt has owned the property since 2006 and transformed it into their Andaz brand.
Your most exciting discovery awaits behind heavy, studded doors. A winding staircase leads you through a spacious mahogany-panelled anteroom to the Grecian-style Masonic temple.
Built in 1912 by architect Charles Barry Jr., this temple cost an enormous amount to create. The space features £4 million worth of marble and mahogany craftsmanship.
You can spot Egyptian-style columns and doorframes throughout the temple. The grand interior combines marble walls with rich mahogany paneling.
The Grecian Masonic Temple remains open for visits by reservation. You’ll need to book ahead to experience this Grade I listed interior.
Contact Information:
Andaz London Liverpool Street
40 Liverpool Street, London EC2M 7QN
Phone: +44 20 7961 1234
Website: www.hyatt.com
The Clements Hotel Cambridge – a beautifully restored Masonic hotel inspired by Claridge’s
You’ll discover a remarkable piece of history when you visit The Clements Hotel in Cambridge, New Zealand. This boutique property began as the original 1866 Masonic hotel built by Archibald Clements.
The original building was the first commercial structure in Cambridge. It sat on a one-acre section on Duke Street in the heart of the new town.
After a fire destroyed the original structure, the hotel was rebuilt in 1911. The new design featured elegant Beaux Arts architecture that still stands today.
You can now experience this beautifully restored 29-room boutique hotel after its recent multi-million-dollar transformation. The restoration was completed and opened to guests in August 2025.
Owners Gerry Westenberg and Jo Pannell drew inspiration from London’s prestigious Claridge’s hotel for their renovation. You’ll notice the blend of historic charm with modern luxury throughout the property.
The hotel maintains its connection to Masonic history while offering refined accommodations. You’ll find first-class facilities that echo the original hotel’s reputation for quality service.
Capstone Hotel Management now operates this heritage property in the Waikato region.
Contact Information:
- Address: 68 Duke Street, Cambridge, New Zealand
- Website: clements.co.nz
Renaissance Providence Hotel – a neoclassical building saving Masonic architecture since 2019
You’ll discover one of Providence’s most fascinating architectural stories at the Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel. This impressive building started construction in 1927 as a Masonic Temple but was abandoned in 1928 during the Great Depression.
The neoclassical structure sat unfinished and empty for nearly 80 years. You can still see the original marble pillars and column-lined facade that make this building so striking.
The Masonic Temple was listed on endangered building lists eight different times between 1994 and 2003. Preservationists worked hard to save this important piece of Providence’s history.
A $100 million renovation finally brought new life to the abandoned temple. The hotel opened in 2019, blending the historic neoclassical architecture with modern hotel amenities.
When you stay here, you’re helping preserve a building that was almost lost forever. The renovation kept the original Masonic design elements while creating comfortable guest rooms and modern facilities.
The building earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places as the Mason Building in 1993. You’ll find the hotel at 5 Avenue of the Arts, walking distance from Brown University and downtown Providence attractions.
Contact Information:
Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel
5 Avenue of the Arts
Providence, RI 02903
Phone: (401) 919-5000
Website: marriott.com
Art Deco Masonic Hotel, Napier, New Zealand: Rebuilt from the Ashes with Enduring Spirit
You’ll find one of New Zealand’s most resilient hotels in the heart of Napier’s famous Art Deco district. The Art Deco Masonic Hotel carries a remarkable story of perseverance that spans over 160 years.
The original Masonic Hotel opened on September 14, 1861, established by proprietor Joseph Gill. A new building replaced it in the early 1900s and was called “the most elaborate hotel in New Zealand.”
Tragedy struck in 1931 when the devastating Hawke’s Bay earthquake destroyed the hotel by fire. But the owners didn’t give up. They built a temporary structure while planning something special.
The current hotel rose from those ashes in the early 1930s, designed in the distinctive Art Deco style that now defines Napier. You’ll stay in one of 43 stylish rooms and suites that blend historic charm with modern comfort.
Your visit connects you to Napier’s worldwide reputation as the Art Deco City. The hotel sits perfectly positioned for exploring the city’s Mediterranean climate and vibrant dining scene.
The boutique property offers compact, stylish accommodations with several popular pubs and restaurants on-site. You can enjoy ocean views from the Emporium Eatery and Bar or relax on the rooftop terrace.
Contact Information:
Art Deco Masonic Hotel
Website: https://masonic.co.nz/
Masonic Symbolism and Architecture
Historic hotels with Freemason connections showcase intricate symbolic designs through carefully placed architectural elements and preserved artifacts. These buildings transform traditional hospitality spaces into living museums where ancient symbols tell stories through stonework, woodcarvings, and interior layouts.
Significance of Freemason Symbols in Hotel Design
When you explore hotels with Masonic heritage, you’ll notice symbolic elements embedded throughout the architecture. The square and compass appear carved into stone facades, etched in glass panels, and woven into carpet patterns.
Common Masonic symbols you’ll find include:
- All-seeing eye positioned above doorways
- Acacia leaves decorating moldings
- Pillars representing strength and establishment
- Stars arranged in specific geometric patterns
These symbols aren’t random decorations. They carry deep meaning related to moral teachings and spiritual growth within Freemasonry.
You’ll discover that Masonic architecture emphasizes sacred geometry. Hotel lobbies often feature perfect circles, squares, and triangles in their floor designs. Ceiling heights follow mathematical proportions that create harmony and balance.
The number three holds special significance in these spaces. You might notice three columns supporting archways, three-tiered chandeliers, or decorative elements grouped in sets of three throughout the building.
Influence of Masonic Rituals on Interiors
Masonic rituals directly shaped how these hotel interiors were designed and arranged. Meeting rooms often feature specific layouts that mirror traditional lodge configurations.
The most important space typically sits in the east wing of the building. This follows Masonic tradition where the master’s chair faces west while members gather in carefully organized seating patterns.
Ritual influences you can observe:
- Checkered floor patterns in black and white marble
- Raised platforms or dais areas for ceremonial purposes
- Windows positioned to capture morning light from the east
- Separate entrance ways for different membership levels
You’ll notice that many dining rooms and ballrooms incorporate elements from Masonic banquet traditions. Long rectangular tables, specific chair arrangements, and even menu presentations sometimes reflect ceremonial practices.
Lighting plays a crucial role in these spaces. Masonic symbolism emphasizes the journey from darkness to light, so you’ll find dramatic lighting contrasts throughout these hotels.
Preservation of Masonic Artifacts
Many historic hotels house impressive collections of original Masonic artifacts that tell the story of local lodge history. These items transform guest areas into informal museums where you can examine centuries-old ceremonial objects.
You might discover display cases containing leather-bound ledgers, ornate gavels, and hand-embroidered aprons. Some hotels showcase original architectural drawings that reveal how Masonic principles guided the building’s construction.
Preserved artifacts often include:
- Ceremonial swords and jewels
- Historical photographs of lodge meetings
- Original building blueprints with symbolic measurements
- Vintage furniture used in Masonic ceremonies
Hotel management typically works with local Masonic historians to maintain these collections properly. Temperature-controlled display areas protect delicate textiles and paper documents from damage.
You can often arrange private tours to see artifacts not displayed in public areas. Many hotels store rare items in climate-controlled vaults, bringing them out for special exhibitions or educational programs.
Some properties have transformed former lodge rooms into guest suites while preserving original woodwork, painted ceilings, and built-in furniture that showcase traditional craftsmanship techniques.
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